Missoula Fly Fishing Report 6/2
Fly Fishing Report - Missoula Area Rivers
I can’t believe it’s already the first weekend in June, it seemed just like yesterday I was chasing steelhead over in Idaho! It looks like the majority of the high water is behind us and rivers have really settled and are starting to get into great fishing shape. The water is still pretty big so be mindful there can be new obstructions from pre-runoff and even some new ones day to day. Keep your head on a swivel and always be paying attention to what's coming at you downstream.
I fished the upper Bitterroot this past weekend and had some good action nymphing a double fly rig under an indicator. The action was good if you found the softer insides and slower banks, fish were on the rubber leg here and there but it seemed like we had most of our action on a red sparkle worm. We also picked up a few fish dredging a zonker (natural/pearl) trailed by a red worm, still finding the right water was key. This upcoming week I imagine the stonefly game will pick up tremendously.
My pick of the week would be the Bitterroot River, it’s going to be your best play if you want to get some consistent fishing. I have heard through the grapevine there may be some salmon flies out and about so keep an eye out and have those big bugs ready to roll. The East and West Forks will have your best hatches with lots of eager fish ready to hit the topwater. Please keep in mind both these rivers require someone with plenty of experience behind the oars to navigate down safely. If you don’t feel comfortable rowing, you can always hit us up for a guided trip, we are offering $100 off any bookings through June 14th, it's a great way to learn the river, get some great fishing in and learn some new things along the way.
Target the banks and the softer water, rivers are still pretty big and the fish will not be in the faster, heavier water. Check out our salmon fly hatch tips and tactics in our last post for some great information to help you catch more fish.
Dry Flies - Chubby Chernobyl, Rogues, Henry’s Fork or Sofa Pillows in size 4, 6, 8
Nymphs - Yuk Bugs, Rubber Legs, Double Beaded Stones in 4,6 or 8’s, Large Prince nymphs in 8 or 10, and the good old San Juan in red, wine or pink. Don’t forget the sparkle or squirmy worms either!
Blackfoot River is starting to clear some and I imagine a few fish could be dredged up. Big stones or your favorite streamer trailed with a San Juan worm will get you into a fish here or there. Remember fish will be up on the banks so keep them tight and look for the softer water and inside corners.
